Looking for a place to travel without the crowds in 2026? Learn more about five underrated destinations where your visit will support local communities and sustainable tourism

Traveling to lesser-known destinations is becoming a new trend in global tourism. By choosing countries that rarely appear in the top tourist destinations, travelers not only avoid crowds, but also support the economy of regions where tourism is only gaining momentum.

Tourism industry analysts have named five countries, including Moldova and Tajikistan, that are already ready to welcome guests and are in particular need of international tourists, Worldwide reports.

We tell you about the destinations that tourists should pay attention to in this article.

Discovering a new country for yourself without the help of travel agents or intermediaries is very simple. All you need is a checklist or a “Travel Guide” from Visit World – a step-by-step guide with all the key information for your trip.

The guide contains information on visa requirements, visa-free entry rules, permitted periods of stay and a list of required documents.

After completing the form, the guide will be sent to your email in PDF format in just a few minutes.

Choose a country and get your travel guide today.

Why are tourists changing their travel destinations?

According to research, 1.1 billion travelers traveled abroad from January to September of last year, which is 5% more than in the same period in 2024. In 2026, experts predict a record number of international trips.

At the same time, tourists are increasingly considering the impact of their travels. According to the Booking.com Travel and Sustainability 2025 report,

- 84% of respondents consider sustainability important when planning a vacation;

- 73% want their spending to benefit local communities.

Choosing lesser-known countries helps to relieve popular tourist cities while promoting local business and infrastructure.

“When tourists come with curiosity and respect and in moderation, they support the local economy and discover authentic cultures without tourist traps,” explains Sam Bruce, co-founder of Much Better Adventures.

5 countries that need tourists in 2026

Moldova

For many years, Moldova was considered one of the least visited countries in Europe. However, the situation is gradually changing: from January to September 2025, the country was visited by about 480 thousand tourists, which is 6.5% more than a year earlier.

The development of tourism here was not easy - the wars of the 20th century destroyed a significant part of the country. Only now is Moldova actively investing in tourism infrastructure.

In Chisinau, it is worth visiting the National Museum of History, strolling through the Stefan cel Mare Park, and outside the capital - seeing the legendary Milești Miț wine complex, the largest wine cellar in the world.

Gambia

Amid climate change, tourism has become a key sector of the Gambian economy. The country is increasingly focusing on community-based tourism, where locals are the main guides to authentic experiences.

In addition to the white beaches of the Atlantic coast, the real Gambia can be discovered by traveling along the Ninki Nanka Trail. It passes through mangroves, coastal villages and inland areas where traditional crafts such as salt production, weaving and blacksmithing are still preserved.

Jordan

In recent years, tourist flows to Jordan have significantly decreased due to the unstable situation in the Middle East. At the same time, now is the chance to see Petra and other iconic sites without the usual crowds.

A special feature of Jordan is the close connection of tourism with local communities. One of the best ways to get to know the country is to walk part of the 675 km Jordan Walking Trail.

Trips include the Ajloun forests, desert Bedouin settlements, traditional Maghlube dinners, and overnight stays in eco-lodges near the Dana Biosphere Reserve.

Tajikistan

Despite stereotypes, travel to Tajikistan is quite affordable: flights to Dushanbe are operated via Dubai and Istanbul. In the capital, tourists are attracted by Victory Park and the Mehrgon Bazaar, but the country’s main asset is its mountains.

The Fan and Pamir mountains offer routes through juniper forests, glacial lakes and remote villages. Here, trips are often accompanied by local guides, and tours are held in small groups, which minimizes the impact on nature and at the same time supports communities.

Paraguay

Paraguay is a country with a difficult history that has shaped a slow and traditional rhythm of life. More than half of its territory is occupied by the Chaco region - an expanse of dry forests, swamps and savannahs, where the indigenous Guarani and gaucho people live side by side.

The Chaco is home to over 500 species of birds, and if you’re lucky, you might spot an armadillo, tapir or even a puma. In the capital, Asuncion, tourists are advised to visit the municipal market during the day and the street food courts in the evening, as well as the Museum of Memory, which tells the story of the fall of the dictatorship in 1989.

Little-known countries offer not only unique landscapes and culture without tourist crowds, but also the opportunity to make the trip truly meaningful - for yourself and for local communities. When planning your travels in 2026, experts advise paying attention to these destinations.

Little-known countries are a unique experience, but it is here that it is especially important to know in advance the visa rules, local features and requirements for tourists.

The “Travel Guide” from Visit World will help you prepare for a trip to countries such as Moldova, Jordan, Tajikistan or Paraguay, without unnecessary risks and unforeseen situations.

All current information is sent in PDF format to your email within a few minutes after registration.

Learn more and purchase the “Travel Guide” on the Visit World portal.

Reminder! Popular tourist destinations can be a trap. We have already told you which 8 places in the world Fodor’s advises to avoid in 2026 due to overtourism, environmental risks and social tension – and what alternatives to choose instead.

Photo – Freepik

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